Always and Forever

Chapter 23: The Blackboard Jungle

The next morning I was passing Archie's room when I heard him tell Fred about starting a band like the Fred Heads.

"If you're gonna do that, do that in the garage," I heard Fred laugh, he then came into my room. "Oh, Dani, are you sure you're fine with going to school today?"

"I will be fine," I assured him. "Actually can I talk to you about something?"

"Sure thing," Fred said. "What is it kiddo?"

"So, I was thinking about moving in with FP and Jughead," I stated. "So, what do you think?"

"The question is, do you want to?" Fred asked.

"I don't want to say the wrong thing and make you and Archie mad or sad," I admitted.

"Sweetheart, this it's your decision," Fred said. "What do you feel is right? Trust your gut."

"I want to live with them," I said. "Is that okay?"

"Yeah, it is," Fred said. "It might be a little lonely here without you and I'll miss you, but I'm okay with it. Just remember you'll always have a room here, okay?"

"Okay," I said. "Thank you."

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At school, I sat in the student lounge with a couple of people. I was talking to one of the Vixens when we saw Veronica and Archie walk into the room while kissing.

"Students of Riverdale High, this is your principal speaking," Principal Weatherbee began over the PA system. "E-mails have been sent to your parents, but effective immediately. Southside High School is shut down." Everyone gasped. "And students will be transferred to other schools in the districts, including this one." I exchanged looks with Archie. "I believe the statement we're releasing..."

"Okay guys, let's not overreact," Veronica suggested.

"Will address your concerns and theirs," Principal Weatherbee continued. "You should be receiving it shortly. I'm sure you have many questions. But it goes without saying, we are welcoming these students with open minds, hearts, and arms...course schedules, and locker assignments. Thank you. That is all."

"Wait, what does that...what does that mean?" Archie asked.

"It means Jughead's coming back," Betty stated.

"Betty, are you ready for that?" I asked.

"Of course," Betty answered. "We're fine. This way we can probably keep an eye on Dani and her Serpent crush too."

"We don't like each other like that," I rolled my eyes as I remembered our kiss.

"But why is this happening now?" Archie asked.

"Who knows," Veronica said. "It's probably some bizarre, Byzantine town ordinance we couldn't possibly understand. And in the meantime let's receive these exiles as if they were our own flesh and blood. Who's in? Hmm?"

"I'm in," I said as I stood up. "Let's get one thing straight, just because they are from the Southside, does not mean they are exiles." I looked around us and motioned them to come closer. "If you guys are going to insult the Serpents, you are going to insult me too, since I am one."

"You're right Dan, we're sorry," Kevin began. "If Dani thinks they aren't going to be a problem. Then she is probably right, but we still have to be cautious." Veronica grabbed my hands.

"Since you are in, can you help me print schedules, locker assignments?" Veronica asked.

"Why?" I asked.